Geoffrey Charles Neal Bio
Geoffrey Charles Neal, born August 28, 1990, is an American professional mixed martial artist competing in the Welterweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Known by the nickname “Handz of Steel,” Neal has established himself as a formidable competitor, ranked #14 in the UFC welterweight rankings as of November 18, 2025.
Early Life and Background
Neal was born in Austin, Texas, and later resided in Dallas, Texas. He attended Texas Lutheran University, where he played football but ultimately found his passion in mixed martial arts. Neal transitioned from football to MMA under the coaching of Sayif Saud, setting the foundation for his professional fighting career.
Path to MMA
Neal began his amateur MMA career in 2010, achieving a 6–1 record over seven matches. Before joining the UFC, he fought ten professional bouts, winning eight and losing two. His early success in regional competitions and Dana White’s Contender Series, where he won by first-round technical knockout, earned him a UFC contract and marked his entry into the highest level of MMA competition.
Geoff Neal Career
Early Career (2010–2017)
Starting as an amateur in 2010, Neal quickly demonstrated his striking and submission skills. His amateur success paved the way for a professional career beginning in 2012. Over several years, he built a strong record in regional promotions, showcasing his knockout power and grappling ability, which attracted attention from major organizations.
Ultimate Fighting Championship Breakthrough (2018–Present)
Neal made his UFC debut on February 18, 2018, against Brian Camozzi, winning by first-round submission. He followed this with notable victories over Frank Camacho by knockout and Belal Muhammad by unanimous decision. His performance against Niko Price at UFC 240 earned him the Performance of the Night award after a technical knockout win. Neal continued to impress with a first-round technical knockout over Mike Perry at UFC 245.
Despite some setbacks, including losses to Stephen Thompson and Neil Magny, Neal rebounded with a split decision win over Santiago Ponzinibbio and a knockout victory against Vicente Luque, which also earned him a Performance of the Night bonus. Neal faced Shavkat Rakhmonov at UFC 285 but lost via submission; however, his effort earned him the Fight of the Night award. In 2024, Neal secured a technical knockout win over Rafael dos Anjos at UFC 308.
Fortis MMA Era (Present)
Currently training with Fortis MMA, Neal continues to compete at a high level in the UFC Welterweight division. His recent bouts demonstrate resilience and skill, although he faced a knockout loss to Carlos Prates in August 2025. Neal’s partnership with Fortis MMA supports his ongoing development and competitive presence in the division.
Fighting Style and Strengths
Geoff Neal is known for his striking power and versatility, combining effective knockout ability with submission skills, holding a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. His reach of 191 cm and height of 180 cm give him physical advantages in the welterweight division. Neal’s aggressive style and tactical approach make him a challenging opponent on various surfaces.
Notable Events and Milestones
Neal’s career highlights include multiple Performance of the Night awards and a Fight of the Night honor. His UFC debut submission win and knockout victories over top contenders have marked him as a rising star. Overcoming serious health challenges in 2020, including septic shock and organ failure, Neal’s return to competition underscores his determination and commitment to the sport.
Geoff Neal Career Wins
Geoff Neal has accumulated 16 professional wins out of 23 fights, with victories coming by knockout, submission, and decision. His record reflects a balanced skill set and the ability to finish fights in multiple ways.
UFC Highlights
Neal’s UFC career features significant wins, including his debut submission victory and knockout performances against Frank Camacho, Niko Price, Mike Perry, and Vicente Luque. His ability to secure Performance of the Night bonuses highlights his impact in the octagon. Despite some losses, Neal remains a competitive force in the welterweight division.
Other Wins and Performances
Before joining the UFC, Neal compiled an 8–2 professional record and a 6–1 amateur record, demonstrating early promise and skill development that facilitated his rise to the premier MMA organization.
Geoff Neal Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
There is no publicly verified information regarding Neal’s family background or any lineage related to combat sports.
Personal Life
Neal worked as a server at a Texas Roadhouse in Dallas for ten years, balancing his job with his fighting career until late 2019. He returned to this job briefly in 2020 during a period without scheduled fights. Neal faced serious health issues in 2020, including septic shock and organ failure, but made a successful return to MMA competition. In 2021, Neal was arrested on misdemeanor charges but was released on bond. No verified information about his marital status or children is publicly available.
2025 Season Performance
In 2025, Neal faced challenges including a withdrawal from a scheduled bout and a knockout loss to Carlos Prates at UFC 319. Despite these setbacks, Neal remains active in the welterweight division, supported by Fortis MMA. His resilience and past performances suggest potential for future success as he continues to compete at the highest level.